Saint Raphael hosts a Read and Feed site every year

Saint Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church (SRCC) began hosting Read and Feed almost five years ago. Initially, members of the congregation began volunteering at one of the mobile sites called The Lakes.

After a couple of years of supporting Read and Feed that way, it became apparent that a lot of the children we were serving at The Lakes, were actually members of our church. As a means of serving a greater number of children, SRCC decided to become a host site.

The response has been so great, that we had to move, after 2 years, from our initial room (which accommodated 50 people–tutors and children, total), to our current location (which accommodates 50 children and their tutors.)

Our parish is particularly proud to be a Read & Feed partner, because the program brings together our Hispanic and Anglo parishioners, it serves recognized needs (literacy, nutrition, socialization), and it’s a source of joy for all involved.

From volunteers, I hear time and again that Read and Feed is the highlight of their week. The friendships that are established, not only between children, but between tutors and their charges, are life-giving. Most of our tutors return year after year, because they believe in the program and see the positive impact it has.

-Linda Lenzmeier, Coordinator of Faith Formation and Sacramental Preparation for Children